Scotland teams run Six Nations leaders close

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The nerves of Scottish rugby supporters were again stretched to the limit on Saturday as Gregor Townsend’s men ran Six Nations favourites Wales to the wire.

Oban back row man Magnus Bradbury put on another abrasive display, but the Scots were beaten 18-11 in the penultimate game of the campaign.

Wales scored two tries in the opening half with Finn Russell keeping the Scots in touch with a brace of penalties.

Magnus Bradbury in action for Scotland against Wales on Saturday. Photograph: SNS Group/SRU.

Despite upping their game in the second half, with Borderer Darcy Graham scoring his first try for the national side, the hosts failed to capitalise on possession and a penalty from the hosts in the last kick of the game sealed the win.

Victory at Twickenham for the first time in 36 years seems unlikely for the Scotland squad, which has suffered three defeats on the bounce in this year’s championship.